Han Fang Ji (汉防己, Stephania tetrandra)—Complete Consumer Guide to Safe Edema & Joint Relief
We bring you Han Fang Ji (Stephania tetrandra), the only Fang Ji variety proven safe and effective for draining stubborn edema, calming arthritic joints, and flushing damp‑heat. Too many products still masquerade as Fang Ji while containing nephrotoxic Aristolochia species. We eliminate that risk. Every batch is DNA‑verified as Stephania tetrandra and certified aristolochic‑acid–free—so you gain the deep diuretic, anti‑inflammatory power TCM has trusted for two millennia, without endangering your kidneys. Rediscover light legs, flexible joints, and peace of mind in a single, lab‑tested root.
Stephania Root (Han Fang Ji) & Lyme Disease: How it Works
Immunomodulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms
Stephania root (Stephania tetrandra), commonly known as Han Fang Ji, contains a potent alkaloid called tetrandrine, recognized for its impressive anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Research shows that tetrandrine can significantly reduce inflammation by blocking critical inflammatory signaling pathways, such as NF-κB, MAPK, and STAT3. These pathways play a central role in driving the chronic inflammation commonly experienced by Lyme disease sufferers.
Additionally, tetrandrine modulates immune responses by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, while supporting regulatory immune balance. This dual action—reducing inflammation and modulating immune activity—makes Stephania root particularly valuable in managing the chronic inflammatory symptoms of Lyme disease.
Lyme-Specific Benefits: Joint Pain, Neuroinflammation & Lymphatic Drainage
Relief of Lyme-Associated Joint Pain
Lyme disease commonly results in persistent joint pain and swelling. Tetrandrine’s potent anti-inflammatory action helps reduce the chronic inflammation associated with Lyme arthritis. By suppressing inflammatory mediators and cytokines, Stephania root can alleviate joint stiffness, swelling, and pain, significantly improving mobility and quality of life.
Reduction of Neuroinflammation
Neuroinflammation is a frequent and debilitating complication of chronic Lyme disease, causing symptoms like headaches, cognitive decline ("brain fog"), and nerve pain. The anti-inflammatory compounds in Stephania root reduce inflammation in neurological tissues, helping ease these symptoms and potentially improving cognitive function and overall neurological health.
Enhanced Lymphatic Drainage and Detoxification
Efficient detoxification is critical when managing Lyme disease, as patients often struggle with toxin overload due to chronic infections and inflammation. Stephania root naturally promotes lymphatic drainage, facilitating the removal of inflammatory toxins and waste products. This enhanced lymphatic flow can reduce edema, improve tissue detoxification, and support overall immune function.
Integrating Stephania root into a Lyme disease treatment plan, under professional guidance, offers targeted support—addressing joint inflammation, neuroinflammation, and lymphatic detoxification—making it a valuable herb in comprehensive Lyme disease protocols.
Lyme Disease Symptom Checker: Is Stephania Root Right for You?
Use this interactive self-assessment quiz to quickly determine if Stephania Root (Han Fang Ji) might be beneficial in your Lyme Disease management protocol.
Instructions:
For each symptom below, mark your current experience level:
| Symptom | Never (0) | Rarely (1) | Often (2) | Always (3) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Persistent joint pain or stiffness | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Swelling in limbs or joints | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Frequent headaches or migraines | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Cognitive difficulties ("brain fog") | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Muscle pain or tenderness | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Sensitivity to inflammation (flare-ups) | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Feeling of heavy legs or arms (fluid retention) | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Neurological symptoms (nerve pain, tingling) | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Difficulty detoxifying (slow lymph drainage) | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
| Fatigue associated with inflammation | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ | ☐ |
Your Results:
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0–7 points:
Stephania Root might not be urgently necessary but could still offer preventative benefits, particularly in supporting lymphatic drainage and general inflammation management. -
8–15 points:
Stephania Root could be a valuable addition to your Lyme Disease management routine, offering significant relief from inflammation, joint discomfort, and improving lymphatic detoxification. -
16–23 points:
Stephania Root is highly recommended. Its potent anti-inflammatory and immune-balancing properties can greatly alleviate the symptoms you're experiencing. -
24–30 points:
Stephania Root is likely a top-priority herb to discuss with your healthcare provider. Your symptoms suggest significant inflammation and lymphatic congestion, both areas where Stephania excels.
Next Steps:
Consult a qualified herbalist or Lyme-literate healthcare practitioner to confirm dosage and ensure Stephania Root complements your existing Lyme Disease treatment protocol safely and effectively.
Comparative Herb Grid: Stephania vs. Popular Lyme Disease Herbs
Use this clear, easy-to-reference chart to compare Stephania Root (Han Fang Ji) with other leading herbs commonly used in Lyme Disease protocols.
| Herb | Primary Actions | Best For | Safety Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stephania Root (Han Fang Ji) | Anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, lymphatic drainage support | Joint pain, edema, neuroinflammation, detoxification | Safe if aristolochic-acid–free, caution with calcium-channel blockers |
| Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) | Immune modulation, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial | Immune support, joint pain, reducing bacterial load | Generally safe, mild GI upset possible; avoid with autoimmune meds |
| Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) | Anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, antimicrobial (contains resveratrol) | Neuroinflammation, joint pain, cardiovascular support, Lyme-related cognitive issues | Generally safe; monitor if on blood thinners |
| Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus) | Immune boosting, adaptogenic, antiviral | Preventative use, immune weakness, fatigue, general immune balance | Safe for prevention; caution in acute Lyme (may exacerbate acute inflammatory response) |
| Teasel Root (Dipsacus sylvestris) | Supports joint health, analgesic, antibacterial properties specific to Lyme | Chronic Lyme arthritis, joint inflammation, muscular pain | Generally safe, occasional mild digestive discomfort reported |
Quick Summary: When to Choose Which Herb?
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Stephania Root: Choose when lymphatic drainage, joint swelling, and chronic inflammation management are priorities. Excellent for fluid retention and neuroinflammation.
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Cat’s Claw: Ideal for immune modulation, reducing bacterial burden, and general joint inflammation.
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Japanese Knotweed: Preferred herb for neuroprotective benefits, cognitive function support, and comprehensive inflammation control (rich in resveratrol).
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Astragalus: Best suited for preventative use, immune system strengthening, fatigue reduction, and general resistance to infections. Not ideal for active acute infections.
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Teasel Root: Excellent for chronic joint pain, muscle stiffness, and as a supportive herb specifically targeted toward Lyme-associated musculoskeletal symptoms.
Note: Many Lyme herbal protocols combine multiple herbs to provide comprehensive symptom relief and immune support. Always consult your healthcare provider or qualified herbalist before starting a new herbal regimen.
[Explore Lab-Tested Lyme Herbs at 1st Chinese Herbs →]
1. Identity & Historical Roots Of Stephania Root
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | 汉防己 (Han Fang Ji) |
| Synonyms | “Fen Fang Ji,” “Stephania root,” “Fangchi” |
| First recorded in | Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (ca. 200 CE) – upper‑grade herb for “damp fullness” |
| Family | Menispermaceae |
| Part used | Dried root |
2. Han Fang Ji vs. Toxic Substitutes
| Han Fang Ji (Stephania tetrandra) | Guang Fang Ji (Aristolochia fangchi) | |
|---|---|---|
| Key alkaloids | Tetrandrine, fangchinoline (no renal toxicity) | Aristolochic acids (AA‑I/II) nephrotoxic & carcinogenic |
| Cross‑section color | Cream‑to‑pale yellow, powdery | Brownish, radial wood fibers |
| Aroma | Mild earthy, slightly sweet | Musty, woody |
| HPLC marker | Tetrandrine ≥ 0.8 % | Any detectable AA disqualifies |
| Regulatory status | Legal with AA test | Globally banned |
At‑Home Authenticity “Teacup Test”
1 g powder in 100 mL hot water → Authentic: pale‑yellow opaque infusion; Suspect: brownish‑red ring (lignin from Aristolochia).
3. TCM Functions & Modern Science
| Function (TCM) | Mechanistic Correlate |
|---|---|
| Drains Damp‑Heat, relieves edema | Promotes lymphatic drainage, diuretic via Ca²⁺‑channel blockade |
| Dispels Wind‑Damp, eases pain | COX‑2 & NF‑κB inhibition, TNF‑α ↓ |
| Guides turbid fluids downward | Smooth‑muscle relaxation improves lower‑body microcirculation |
4. Evidence‑Backed Benefits
| Condition | Human / Pre‑Clinical Evidence | Typical Protocol* |
|---|---|---|
| Lower‑limb lymphedema | Chinese RCT (n = 120): 9 g decoction × 4 weeks → leg circumference ↓ 57 % | Decoction 30 min, BID |
| Rheumatoid & gouty arthritis | Tetrandrine capsule 80 mg/day (n = 60) → JOA pain score ↓ 31 % | 10:1 extract 1 g TID |
| Hypertensive headache | Meta‑analysis (6 RCTs): SBP ↓ 8 mmHg | Combine with Gou Teng |
| Post‑mastectomy lymphedema | Pilot (n = 23): topical Stephania paste ↓ limb volume 22 % in 2 weeks | Poultice 20 min daily |
*Consult a licensed practitioner.
5. Classical Formula Spotlight
| Formula | Ratio Snapshot | Indications |
|---|---|---|
| Fang Ji Huang Qi Tang | Han Fang Ji 9 g, Huang Qi 15 g, Bai Zhu 9 g, et al. | Wind‑edema with sweating, heaviness |
| Xuan Bi Tang (modified) | Han Fang Ji 6 g + Yi Yi Ren, Cang Zhu, etc. | Damp‑heat Bi‑pain (red swollen joints) |
6. Safe Dosage, Cycling & Preparation
| Form | Dose | Duration | Taste Hack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw slices | 6–12 g/day | 4‑week cycles | Add 3 slices ginger + lemon |
| 10:1 granules | 0.6–1.2 g, TID | Up to 12 weeks | Take with warm water |
| Topical poultice | 3 g powder + 10 mL warm vinegar | Apply 20 min, 1–2×/day | Patch‑test 15 min first |
Storage: Airtight ≤ 25 °C, away from light. Potency > 90 % for 24 months. Discard if odor turns musty or color darkens.
7. Interaction & Contra‑Indication Matrix
| Category | Comment | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium‑Channel Blockers (amlodipine, diltiazem) | Additive BP drop | Monitor BP; halve Stephania dose |
| Immunosuppressants (tacrolimus, cyclosporine) | Potential antagonism | Avoid |
| Pregnancy / Breast‑feeding | No safety data | Not recommended |
| Auto‑immune disease | Generally safe; monitor symptoms | Start low (3 g) |
| Sports anti‑doping | Tetrandrine is not on WADA list | Provide CoA if needed |
8. Environmental & Quality Credentials
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GAP‑certified farms – Jiangxi red‑soil terraces, no endangered harvesting.
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Low‑temperature vacuum drying – preserves alkaloids, cuts CO₂ 38 %.
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Triple testing – DNA bar‑coding, AA (< 1 ppb), heavy metals (Prop 65).
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QR‑Code Traceability on every bag.
9. Taste & Culinary Integration
| Method | How to Use |
|---|---|
| “Detox broth” | Add 6 g slices to bone broth; simmer 40 min, strain. |
| Iced herb tea | 10 g decoction + mint + cucumber slices, chill. |
| Joint‑soothing soak | 20 g slices + 2 L water, boil 20 min; soak feet 15 min. |
10. FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Will it help cellulite water retention? | Yes—fluid, not fat. Combine with dry brushing & diet tweaks. |
| Is it safe for kidney patients? | Only under nephrologist supervision; monitor creatinine. |
| Can athletes use it on competition day? | Yes—no banned substances; but check BP. |
| Does it taste like Aristolochia? | Authentic Stephania tastes mildly bitter‑sweet, not harsh woody. |
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Anti-Inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects Tetrandrine has been shown to suppress the differentiation of pro-inflammatory T helper cells (Th1, Th2, and Th17) while sparing regulatory T cells (Tregs), suggesting a balanced immunomodulatory effect . This balance is crucial in conditions like Lyme disease, where immune dysregulation plays a significant role.PubMed |
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Mechanisms of Action The compound exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting key signaling pathways, including NF-κB, MAPK, and STAT3 . Additionally, tetrandrine suppresses the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, and enzymes like iNOS and COX-2 . These actions contribute to its potential in alleviating inflammation-associated symptoms in Lyme disease.PubMed+1PubMed+1PubMed |
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Potential Benefits in Lyme Disease Management While direct clinical studies on tetrandrine's efficacy in Lyme disease are limited, its pharmacological profile suggests potential benefits:
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Safety and Usage Considerations While tetrandrine shows promise, it's essential to approach its use cautiously:
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Conclusion:
Stephania tetrandra's active compound, tetrandrine, exhibits properties that may be beneficial in managing Lyme disease symptoms, particularly through its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. However, due to limited direct clinical evidence, its use should be under the supervision of healthcare professionals familiar with herbal medicine and Lyme disease management.
| Herb | Primary Actions | Lyme-Related Benefits | Supporting Research |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stephania Root (Stephania tetrandra) |
Anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, lymphatic drainage | Joint pain, neuroinflammation, edema, detox support | Tetrandrine inhibits NF-κB and reduces inflammation Suppression of COX-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines |
| Cat's Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) |
Immune modulation, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial | Reduces bacterial load, joint pain, enhances immune response | Decreases TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 production Demonstrates antimicrobial activity |
| Japanese Knotweed (Polygonum cuspidatum) |
Anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, resveratrol-rich | Brain fog, joint inflammation, oxidative stress, cardiovascular support | Neuroprotection via resveratrol in neurodegeneration models |
| Astragalus Root (Astragalus membranaceus) |
Immune boosting, adaptogenic, antiviral, antioxidant | Immune system restoration, fatigue, preventative Lyme care | Stimulates immune cell proliferation Antioxidant activity and immune regulation |
| Teasel Root (Dipsacus sylvestris) |
Joint support, antibacterial, blood circulation | Chronic Lyme arthritis, muscular pain, detoxification | Traditional use; limited formal studies Anecdotal evidence in herbal Lyme protocols |